Joan’s advice on . . . what you can and cannot bring through security

Peak holiday season is fast approaching and it is good to be reminded of what you can and cannot bring through airport security. Some of the rules can be confusing – especially when transiting through other countries. In some cases even security officers are unsure of the rules.

The subject of penknives and scissors comes up regularly. You can bring a small penknife or scissors with a blade no longer than 6cm – around two inches – in Europe, but not in the US.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States was going to allow penknives on flights in 2013, but there were strong objections from air staff unions and the public. If you want to be amused by the variety of weaponry that are confiscated every month, have a look at the TSA blog, http://blog.tsa.gov/.

Old style alarm clocks can also cause problems in security. A reader recently wrote about being hauled back for a bag recheck in Tegal Berlin airport. Better to rely on the alarm on your mobile telephone.

Taking duty free through airports is also a confused subject. Supposedly when you come into an EU airport you can bring liquid purchases through security. Liquids must be in a clear sealed plastic bag with a red outline and with the receipt on view inside.

However, not all airports or airlines outside Europe know this and your purchases are likely to be confiscated if they do not comply. The rules also apply if you are flying from the EU to another country, make sure that present of a bottle of Irish whiskey complies or you could see it on eBay. The dearest whiskey on sale in Dublin Airport is the Middleton Pearl Very Rare 30th Anniversary edition. At €10,000 and duty free €9,000, it’s not one you would want confiscated.

Send your queries to jscales@irishtimes.com.